Ask HSF! Archives

Dear Homeschool Frederick!,

We just moved to the area and I have two boys who are 3.5 and 4.5 years old. In Maryland, according to the public schools, he can’t start Kindergarten. But I wondered if I could start the Kindergarten program at home with him and still have it count as his “kindergarten year.” Also, I live in Urbana and wondered if there were any homeschooling groups in my area?

Thank you,
Vicky W., Urbana

Dear Vicky,
You raised an excellent question! According to a Maryland official, homeschoolers must turn five prior to December 1st while public school children must turn five prior to September 1st. This is good news for homeschool children who may take advantage of the three month difference. If you have any questions or concerns about this state mandate, I would encourage you to contact the Frederick County Public Schools Homeschool Monitor who is available to answer questions from the homeschool community.

As far as homeschool groups in your area, there is a complete listing of groups online at Homeschool Frederick! on the Support Groups area if of this site. If you are unable to locate one specifically in your community, considering forming a new one -- an Urbana-based homeschool group that meets for playdates, field trips, informal cooperatives, etc.

And, if you do, please let HSF! know in order to add a new organizational support group to our HSF! site page. Just think, you could be the mover-shaker to make it all happen in Urbana!

Good luck!
HSF! Staff